Match report: Bristol 27 Doncaster Knights 39

The Knights sensationally toppled Championship leaders Bristol to claim their first ever league win over the Ashton Gate outfit on Friday night.

Clive Griffiths’ third-placed side – who welcomed back Declan Cusack and Matt Challinor from lengthy lay-offs – took home a bonus point win and, even more remarkably, left their hosts empty handed.

Fears that Bristol would overturn a half time deficit, as they did last season, when a 69th minute penalty levelled the scores at 24-24 were allayed as wing Dougie Flockhart and replacement hooker Vili Veikoso bagged late tries.

Knights got off to the worst possible start when centre Jack Tovey crossed for a second minute converted try.

But, showing the character which has stood them in good stead this season, they hit back with a try by leading scorer Latu Makaafi from a catch and drive ploy.

Knights deservedly took a 14-7 lead in the 17th minute when strong-running centre Will Hurrell broke the line before sending wing Tyson Lewis over for a second converted try with a floated pass.

There was more joy for Knights on the half-hour when Makaafi took his tally for the season into double figures from another catch and drive routine.

Bristol gave Knights a taste of their own medicine when hooker Ross McMillan touched down from a driving maul – Gavin Henson’s conversion cutting the deficit to just seven points,